Lenten Reflections

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By Mary Morkunas ’26

As I was reading the Daily Readings for the Wednesday of the First Week in Lent, three words stuck to me. Those words were forgiveness, repent, and contrite. The readings discuss that if we turn away from our sins and are terribly sorry and remorseful for them, then God will forgive us. He will forgive us because of the universal love he has.

Although there were many powerful lines in today’s readings, my favorite line was the Responsorial Psalm, “A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” If your heart is truly remorseful, God will never refuse you. To me this is welcoming. No matter the mistakes we make, if we realize we made them, are sorry for those mistakes, and then ask God for forgiveness, he will show us mercy. He will never turn someone actively looking for him away. During this time of Lent, it is important to reflect on our mistakes and sins and make sure we are remorseful for them too. These readings helped me realize the true importance of going to confession. God will always forgive us, but we must seek him out for our forgiveness. He gave us the gift of penance; therefore, it is our duty to be truly remorseful for the things we do wrong.

We can also learn from God’s ability to forgive in these readings. Believe me, I understand that it is hard to forgive someone when they commit a wrongdoing towards you. But if that person comes to you sorry for their mistake, I believe that if God can forgive them, you must find the ability in your heart to forgive them too. It will take strength, but I can promise you that it will provide you with more comfort than holding a grudge.

Overall, if you are sorry for your sins and are actively turning away from evil then God will forgive you, for God is merciful. It is important this time of year to go to confession and do your part towards receiving forgiveness. As we read today’s readings, we should reflect on our ability to forgive and reflect on ourselves and our mistakes. God will always be willing to forgive us, but we must be remorseful first.